being manipulated by

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "being manipulated by" is grammatically correct and can be used in written English.
It is typically used to indicate that someone or something is being controlled or influenced by another person or entity in a potentially negative or harmful way. Example: Jane realized she was being manipulated by her boyfriend, who constantly made her feel guilty and insecure about her actions.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

We're constantly being manipulated by images.

The Guardian - Film

You're being manipulated by the app.

The Guardian - Tech

I know I'm being manipulated by an onslaught of cuteness.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

In actuality, they are being manipulated by politicians," he said.

The Guardian

"Before, I was always being manipulated by someone else".

The New York Times - Arts

The Times is not being manipulated by this administration.

The New York Times

Or is he being manipulated by ideological zealots?

The Economist

"Jordanians still see Iraq as being manipulated by outside forces.

The New York Times

"Eliza's the marionette, being manipulated by Henry Higgins, being manipulated by God? That's Elliott Glass: he's the god behind the co-op boards, controlling your renovation".

The New York Times

Blacks were not being manipulated by the culture, as Mr. Brown suggests, but rather transforming it.

The New York Times - Books

Like your good self, I dislike being manipulated by the text.

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "being manipulated by", clearly identify both the manipulator and the manipulated to avoid ambiguity and strengthen your statement.

Common error

Avoid using "being manipulated by" without sufficient evidence or justification. Overusing this phrase can lead to accusatory language and weaken your argument.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "being manipulated by" functions as a passive construction, indicating that the subject is the recipient of an action performed by an external agent. As Ludwig AI states, it suggests control or influence, often with negative implications. The examples illustrate how it's used to describe situations where individuals or groups are subjected to undue influence.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

85%

Wiki

9%

Science

6%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "being manipulated by" is a grammatically correct and common construction used to describe scenarios where an entity is unfairly controlled or influenced. As Ludwig AI confirms, it generally carries a negative connotation. Analysis of numerous examples reveals its frequent use in news and media, and it is used to express concern or criticism. While "being manipulated by" conveys a sense of negative control, alternative phrases like "being influenced by" or "being controlled by" may be more appropriate depending on the specific nuance intended. When employing this phrase, clarity and justification are key to avoid overstating claims.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

being controlled by

Focuses on the aspect of control, emphasizing a lack of autonomy.

subject to the control of

Formal rephrasing, adds objectivity.

being influenced by

Highlights the aspect of influence, suggesting a more subtle form of persuasion.

being exploited by

Emphasizes unfair use for personal gain, adding a negative connotation.

being used by

Focuses on the instrumental aspect of the relationship, suggesting the subject is a tool.

falling prey to

Suggests vulnerability and victimization, highlighting the negative consequences.

at the mercy of

Indicates a state of helplessness and dependence, emphasizing lack of control.

under someone's thumb

Idiomatic expression, emphasizes complete dominance.

under the sway of

Implies a captivating or enchanting influence, suggesting a loss of rational judgment.

played like a fiddle by

Idiomatic expression, paints a picture of cunning deceit.

FAQs

How can I use "being manipulated by" in a sentence?

You can use "being manipulated by" to describe a situation where someone or something is controlled unfairly by another party, such as "The public is "being manipulated by" biased media outlets".

What are some alternative phrases for "being manipulated by"?

Alternatives include "being controlled by", "being influenced by", or "being used by", depending on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

Is it always negative to say someone is "being manipulated by" something?

Yes, the phrase generally carries a negative connotation, implying unfair or unethical control. In case of an action that does not generate a negative effect in someone, other alternative phrases may fit better.

What's the difference between "being influenced by" and "being manipulated by"?

Being influenced by suggests a more subtle and potentially positive form of persuasion, while "being manipulated by" implies a deliberate and often deceptive control.